Claremont residents talk about local history

It was a room full to overflowing in Claremont as area residents interested in the past gathered to talk about local history.
The Claremont Service Center was filled with voices with stories to tell about what happened in the past. Dodge County Historical Society volunteers organized the event to be able to gather some of the stories that are remembered from times gone by.
Reminisces included:
Stories of bad weather;
Boy Scout lifesaving;
an Arabian horse farm and horse racing track;
school shenanigans;
landing a plane along the railroad tracks west of town;
stories of “Bert the Bum;”
the closing of the local school; and
Encounters with indigenous people.
Several people remembered the exact location of the home in town where bootleg liquor was available during Prohibition. The house had a red light and a blue light, according to the story, and when the light changed color, it meant liquor was available.
Historical society board members are eager to collect stories from all parts of the county, according to Lois Chicos. A series of meetings were held in the Hayfield area last year that brought new and valuable information to light. The Claremont area also has its stories to tell. They have volunteers who will make an appointment to take notes on your information.
There will be more meetings scheduled in the Claremont area, Lois said, and everyone with an interest in Claremont history is welcome to attend.
People who want to contribute stories, photos, and artifacts are welcome to contact the Dodge County Historical Society at (507)635-5508 and leave a message or email at dodgecountyhistoricalsociety@gmail.com.